^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).

Obstructed View Cabin

A cabin with a window that is obstructed in view by a lifeboat. In some cases the view is completely obstructed by the lifeboat but will allow some natural light into the cabin.

Made up as either a double or twin for twin share occupancy^

Two fixed lower beds and two upper beds for quad share occupancy

Private ensuite, shower over bath

Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment

Wardrobe, safety deposit box, desk with chair

24-hour room service*

Bathrobe and slippers*

*Charges apply

^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).

^ The two lower beds cannot be converted to a queen-size bed if the 3rd or 4th upper berths are occupied or if a cot is required. A lower berth will be removed to accommodate a cot (Cot subject to availability).

Oceanview Stateroom - Category OE

Deck 5

Oceanview Stateroom - Category OD

Deck 6

Oceanview Stateroom - Category OC

Deck 4

Oceanview Stateroom - Category OB

Deck 5

Oceanview Stateroom - Category OA

Deck 10

Balcony Stateroom - Category BD

Deck 9

Balcony Stateroom - Category BE

Deck 9

Balcony Stateroom - Category BC

Multiple Decks

Balcony Stateroom - Category BB

Deck 10

Deluxe Suite with Balcony - Category SA

Deck 10

Penthous Suite with Balcony Category PS

Please note: All prices featured are per person (unless otherwise stated),
and include non commission fares (taxes, fees and port expenses).
Prices and availability are subject to change due to changes made by the Cruise Companies.
Prices quoted are based on payments made via BPAY or bank transfer.
Visa and Mastercard payments incur a 1.5% transaction fee.

Cost Included Dining Options

With a subtle nod to Hollywood glamour and a generous splash of Italian style, elegant Angelo’s is home to traditional Italian comfort food with a contemporary edge.

Surrounded by images of Latin legends taken by one of Italy’s most celebrated photographers, Angelo Frontoni, the restaurant provides a sophisticated setting to enjoy la dolce vita with family and friends as you indulge in a meal to remember. Angelo's is open for dinner each evening.

Open every night for dinner, Dragon Lady serves up modern Pan-Asian cuisine with an air of Eastern mystery.

With a sultry setting of dark timbers and midnight blue tones, Dragon Lady promises a tantalising night in the Orient. Be seduced by the exotic scents and spices of a menu inspired by Australians’ passion for Asian cuisine, bursting with flavour with every mouthful.

Exclusive to P&O, The Pantry is a brand new dining experience like nothing you've seen on a cruise before. Say good bye to the traditional cruise buffet and hello to freshly made food from around the world. It's the perfect venue for a quick bite or long lunch and the best bit, it's included in the your fare.

The Pantry provides an all inclusive dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with delicious food and a contemporary café vibe, replacing the former buffet area on deck 11.

Inspired by modern Australia, Hook's Fish and Chips feels like a beachfront restaurant. Mexicana embraces its Aztec look. The sleek façade of the Sugar Bar is the perfect backdrop to the rainbow colours of the decadent sweets and cakes on display. It’s no surprise that Fat Cow carvery is all about meat. Curry House dishes up modern Indian while Stix serves up tantalising Asian fare. Drinks are all sorted at the blue and white tiled Coffee Bar.

Choose from communal long tables to lounge chairs and high tables, with scattered pictures, plants, fruit bowls and books adding to the relaxed urban café feel, created by Tillberg Design of Sweden.

Fat Cow: Vegetarians beware, at Fat Cow there's more meat than you can imagine, offering the finest cuts to send meat lovers into a flutter. Try tender carvings, roast chicken (using our own secret recipe), succulent legs of lamb, cured hams, roast pork racks and beef scotch fillets that melt in your mouth. It's all sourced from local producers and served with a wide selection of rustic sides and condiments to create the perfect roast dinner.

Sugar Bar: Discover a mouth-watering selection of cakes, pastries and individual desserts all freshly made onboard at Sugar Bar. If you're in the mood for something sweet, bring the family for some handmade desserts to top off any meal.

Stix: China, Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar - they all have their own word for 'chop sticks', so onboard we just call them Stix! Indulge your passion for Asia's finest cuisines including traditional rice dishes, the freshest stir-fries, sizzling noodles and heart-warming dumpling soups. And don't miss our famous P&O Laksa!

Hook's Fish & Chips: Surf and turf goes casual with P&O's Fish & Chips. Serving up crispy battered fish and hot chips with the perfect amount of crunch, this onboard 'fish and chip shop' knows how to please. Get your hands on the freshest seafood and daily specials like salt and pepper squid, lemon and herb calamari rings or crumbed scallops. Yum!

Curry House: Where does the best curry in the world come from? Right here at P&O! Curry House is a smorgasbord of classic curry flavours and authentic dishes. Whether you're enjoying an old favourite or trying something new (like the renowned P&O tandoori), you'll love the incredible range, complemented by homemade breads, chutneys, raitas and pickles.

McGregors Garden: Make friends with salad at McGregor's - serving up a selection of fresh salads that change daily.

The Waterfront Restaurant is a modern, stylish restaurant offering, full service, a la carte dining. You can choose from the regular menu or the ever changing range of specials, and the young ones will love the selection on the kid’s menu.

Family style share platters are popular features on the Waterfront Restaurant menu. Designed for four to six people to share, choose from platters such as Honey and lemon whole roasted chicken with bread stuffing, natural gravy, charred onions and root vegetables, or baked, rustic beef and onion pie in Shiraz sauce with roasted vegetables.

Open for breakfast and dinner every day and lunch most days.

Cost Required Dining Options

For a meal that is equal parts memorable and mouth-watering, join us at Chef's Table.

Your evening starts with a cocktail and canapes reception hosted by the Executive Chef, followed by an exclusive tour of the galley. Once seated, the Executive Chef will introduce each course and its expertly matched wine.

It's your job to relax amongst great company and indulge as we serve up this extraordinary dining experience.

Celebrity chef Luke Mangan brings his reputation, talent and flare to Salt grill’s exquisite menu. This stand out restaurant brings the very best of fine dining and the finest Australian wines exclusively to P&O Cruises, all for a fraction of the price you pay on land.

Bars and Lounges

Mix Bar

At MIX the drinks are sophisticated and the scene is chic. Choose from our innovative cocktail menu of classics and new creations or seek inspiration from our expert staff for something unique. Whatever you choose your cocktail will feature top shelf spirits expertly mixed with real, fresh ingredients.

The Dome

If you feel like dancing the night away The Dome is the place to be. Our DJs know just how to get the party started so make sure you wear the right shoes to burn a hole in the dance floor.

Lido Pool Bar

Sip the day away by the pool – you’re never going to feel so relaxed.

Marquee Bar

Take in a performance or even a game of bingo (charges apply for bingo).

Ocean Bar

Decorated with comfy chaise lounges in an area with few columns for more open space. This onboard bar is offers a resort-style set up perfects for an afternoon drink or some well-deserved lazing around.

Blue Bar

The Blue Room – a New Orleans "speakeasy" lounge bar – decorated with velvet and chrome furnishings is an opulent space ideal for an evening pre or post dinner drink. Passengers can spend the evening listening to live music, anything from funk to Blues, and Jazz to RnB.

Spa

Elemis Spa

Unwind with some rejuvenating 'you' time. At our onboard day spa you can loosen your muscles, relieve your tension and clear your mind. And we're not just talking facials and massages. Reflexology, acupuncture, men's treatments, even teeth whitening are all on the menu.

And if you're not feeling quite prepped for the poolside, we've got you covered with spray tans, body scrubs, and the full service range of a hair and beauty salon.

Elemis Spa is open daily though we suggest you make a booking on embarkation day for an appointment time which suits you.

Charges apply.

Kids Club

P&O's unique Kids' Club programs have been developed with guidance from professional childhood academics, with a focus on the sorts of can't-wait-to-tell-my-friends-back-home type activities you wont find anywhere else. P&O also limit the number of children onboard each cruise to ensure everyone receives an even higher level of care and attention.

Please note: toilet trained children two and up are welcome without adult supervision and infants under two may access the centre as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian who is over the age of 18.

Night time childcare

From 10.30pm until 1am each evening, toilet trained kids three and over can hang out in the Kid’s Clubs for a nominal fee per child, per hour, with a special reduced rate per additional child. Check with Kid’s Club staff for details and prices.

Swimming

Any child using the pools must be supervised by a parent /guardian at all times. For public safety reasons, children in nappies (including swim nappies) and children who are not toilet trained are not permitted in the public swimming pools and spas.

P&O Edge

P&O Edge is not for the faint hearted. If you're up for some extra adventure, join the adrenalin junkies at P&O Edge Adventure Park.

It's Australia's largest adventure park at sea, and take it from us, it's awesome! With up to 19 exciting activities you can really get your heart pumping.

Bookings for all P&O Edge activities can be made on Deck 14 - AFT

Pacific Dawn Sail Away Opportunity (Limited Spaces)Be lucky enough to have this unique opportunity to stand in some of the highest places on the ship whilst sailing away from the beautiful destinations on either the Crows Nest or Pacific Dawn Sign of the Pacific Dawn. This experience also includes a glass of Bubbles or Wine.

Rock ClimbClimb to some of the highest points on the ship. There are a range of purpose built climbs that use an auto belay system allowing you to climb over and over again up to 10 metres high off the deck.

Walk the PlankCome up to the top decks once you are on board to Walk the Plank to the edge of the ship! Test your nerves, how far will you go? If someone in your group has been naughty, then make them Walk the Plank! Argggggh!

Pacific Dawn Sign ExperienceStand tall on our purpose built platform, directly above the Pacific Dawn Sign at the top of the ship and experience unique and spectacular views over the entire ship and ocean.

Low RopesOur purpose built Low Ropes obstacle course is approx 2m off the ground. It allows you to walk, climb and crawl around our high ropes park located on deck 15. Lower than the high ropes course makes it accessible for younger children or those wanting to test the waters before tackling the High Ropes challenge.

High RopesOur purpose built obstacle course in the air. Wearing a harness and connected to a continuous belay system, you will walk, climb and crawl around our high ropes park located on the very top of the ship. Watch the ocean go by as you complete this challenging yet fun course.

Flat LineSeen the clowns at the circus walk the tight rope? You can try it out for yourself on our portable adventure that can run almost anywhere on the ship. It’s a flat line that you must attempt to walk from side to the other on, great for improving your balance and a great social activity.

Crows NestAscend to the top of our purpose built structure on Deck 15 and be a real sailor looking out to sea. Get the best views and fantastic photo opportunities from the photo department. Up to 6 people can be up there together which could be a great family experience or a special moment for you and a loved one.

Climbing WallClimb the walls to the top of Deck 7, then across the roof and back down the other side. 4 purpose built climbs that use an auto belay system allowing you to climb over and over again.

Bouldering WallJust like climbing but instead of going up you will traverse across our wall located on Deck 7. Perfect for those who want to try climbing but are unsure of heights. Also great for experienced climbers to improve on their technique.

Titanic MomentCome through crew only areas to arrive at the bow of the ship. You will walk on flat surface out to the very front of the ship; and we mean the front! We’ve even built a purpose built platform to get you further forward as you re-enact the infamous Titanic moment whilst being securely fastened to the ship.

Slackline SurfingSeen the clowns at the circus walk the tight rope? You can try it out for yourself on Deck 15 in the sunshine. It’s a flat line that you must attempt to walk from side to the other on, great for improving your balance and a great social activity.

Segway
Challenge yourself on these amazing 2 wheeled vehicles. Receive an introduction on how to ride them from our Instructors and following on from this, if you choose to, you can ride our purpose built obstacle course in the open area of Deck 15.

P&O Bow Ladder ExperienceLet us guide you through crew only areas to arrive exclusively at the bow of the ship. You will walk up a small ladder system to have a great photo opportunity from the photo department next the P&O Logo with the bridge in the background.

Laser TagTwo teams will battle it out in the Marquee Theatre on Deck 7 using our laser equipment which consists of a phaser (gun) and head band (sensors to aim at). Plan your strategies, reload your weapon and respawn to conquer the ship.

Flying FoxYou can soar over 80m across the open decks of the ship on one of our zip lines! A unique experience at sea that is not to be missed!

Bungy TrampHow high can you jump on a trampoline? Let’s add some bungy cords and a harness into the mix, how high can you jump now? This is a purpose designed trampoline that allows participants to jump higher than ever before whilst being securely fastened to the structure.

Bosun’s Chair SwingSwing through the Atrium or open decks just like the Cirque team on our purpose rigged swing for children.

Abseil
Enjoy the views whilst you climb to the very top of the Aft funnel where you will be met by an instructor who will then guide you in Abseiling down the 10m high funnel, controlling your own descent the entire way!

* Pacific Adventures has a minimum age of 6yrs on all activities. Note that to safely participate, you must also be able to correctly fit in the appropriate PPE. Children age from 6-17yrs. Adult ages from 18+

* For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to P&O Edge activities. Pacific Adventures may ask you for your weight before participating in an activity. Note, a maximum weight of 110kg on all activities. Exclusion to this is Bungy trampoline which is maximum of 90kg.

Casino

There are roulette and blackjack tables, gaming lessons for beginners, poker machines and even a private poker room on Pacific Aria & Pacific Eden. We also offer a Casino Rewards program which offers a wide variety of benefits.

And on cruises of seven night or more, don't miss Ladies Evenings where you can learn how to play the fantastic variety of games on offer including Blackjack, Roulette, Three Card Poker and Texas Hold'em Poker. It's a friendly, informative evening that's lots of fun.

Entertainment - Shows and Performances

Fancy a show after dinner? The original production shows onboard are choreographed by a leading Australian production company and designed exclusively for P&O Cruises audiences.

Performed in the impressive two-storey The Marquee theatre and with a number of different shows* featured on each ship, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Off The Charts - A concert-style production offering a roller coaster ride through some of the musical smash hits of the naughties. Off the Charts features the cool sounds of artists such as Adele, Amy Winehouse, Bruno Mars & Taylor Swift. Urban Funk, modern soul and cool pop vibes ensures it’s a high energy, feel good experience for everyone.

Disconnected - Set in an inner-city cafe, DisConnected is a thought-provoking production show that uses music and dialogue to explore the complexities of social media and technology in today's world.

The Very Last Night Show - Based on a live-to-air TV show for a live studio audience, The Very Last Night Show offers true variety with design elements reminiscent of a typical late night television program.

Life As We Know It - A modern music performance piece, Life as We Know It reflects on the various aspects of life including love, loss, fear and joy. The soundtrack includes a mix of contemporary music and the imagery reflects the emotional, reflective and entertaining moments in various phases of life.

Sideshow Alley - Sideshow Alley takes a theatrically entertaining look at the characters behind the scenes of a travelling sideshow. Set in no particular place at no particular time, the story reverberates the value of being ourselves, to be truly accepted. The diverse characters each find the sideshow world is one in which they fit in unequivocally.

Twice upon a Time - Twice Upon A Time is a remarkable, original lyrical dance piece which has been created like no other show P&O has previously presented. It dramatically takes a journey through a post apocalyptic world to a time of re-generation and splendour. The contemporary dance style captures the tension and glory of the tale delivering an emotional masterpiece unlike any other show on board.

The Velvet Rope - A mix of song, dance and drama, The Velvet Rope is set in a nightclub of the 1930s. This is a story of hope and perseverance, a lesson in not always listening to others but listening to yourself and a joyful mix of music blends linking the romance of troubled times in the 1930s with the slick music grooves of the 21st century.

Slumber - P&O beds can be a place of rest, of nurturing and revitalising. They can also be a place of struggle and torment. A place to dream, to love, to play, to escape to. This original new production has a bed as the central theme and touches on these aspects with a dream-like treatment. Featuring a broad mix of contemporary songs, Slumber is bound to be an entertaining treat for all.

*Production shows may vary from ship to ship dependent on itineraries

Shopping

Whether it’s window shopping or pure unabashed purchasing, there’s a floating marketplace to discover. You’ll find top names in fragrances, cosmetics, fashion, jewellery and accessories, plus the latest in digital cameras and equipment. And in our tax and duty free stores+, there are savings of up to 40% off the recommended retail price.

Be sure to keep an eye out for sales and special offers in Pacific Daily, the onboard newsletter.

+Tax and duty-free shopping is not available on Australian coastal cruises, except Queensland cruises featuring Willis Island.

The Oasis...it's just like it sounds - a happy, peaceful place that's all about downtime, drinks and deckchairs. A child-free refuge, where the sound track is the ship's wake, the cocktails are crisp and the view is a show-stopper.

But don't take our word for it, get onboard and pull up a day bed!

Sports & Fitness

Get moving outdoors with a game of table tennis, deck chess, gold putting, shuffleboard or quoits. The Pacific Aria’s sports complex also includes a full-size Tennis Courrt (portside), a full-size Basketball Court (starboard).

Fitness Centre

Access to the fitness centre is included in your cruise fare and it’s professionally staffed, with weight and aerobic conditioning equipment. There are also fitness classes, a sauna and steam rooms available (charges apply). Guests using the fitness centre must be 16 years or over.

Swimming

Choose from two separate pool decks. The top deck pool area is fully climate controlled and open in any weather thanks to our retractable roof. It also features luxurious furnishings, water features and a bar.

The Oasis overlooks the wake and features an adult-only swimming pool cushioned day beds and bar.

Any child using the pools must be supervised by a parent /guardian at all times. For public safety reasons, children in nappies (including swim nappies) and children who are not toilet trained are not permitted in the public swimming pools and spas.

Get a hit of nostalgia and go back to school for a night in the Dome or Connexions. Features include a giant blackboard wall, graffiti decor and even a principal handing out detention slips for the class clowns. Get back to the good old days where your biggest worry was what to have for lunch.

Vegas Pool

Get glammed up and join us on the pool deck for an afternoon of sin (Sin City, that is). This pool party will be packed with high-energy music, Vegas style cocktails and performers. Think over-the-top, high-energy vibes you can only find in Vegas.

Gatsby Party

Live the extravagant style of Gatsby in real life. This high end cocktail party will be complete with themed music, entertainment and classic cocktails.

Ship info

Pacific Aria brings a whole new level of holiday to your holiday. This is cruising like you've never seen it before! This ship has some surprises in store, come aboard and explore it now.

Vessel: P&O - Pacific Aria

Year: 1994

Beam: 101

Cruising speed: 22

Kids Club: Turtle Cove, Shark Shack, HQ and HQ+

Onboard Currency: Australian Dollars

Passenger Capacity: 1,260

Refurbished: 2015

Tonnage: 55,819

Vessel: P&O - Pacific Aria

Voltage: Australian 220v

Year Built: 1994

24 Hour Room Service

All Main Meals Included

Art Auctions

Casino

Conference Facilities

Dance Classes

Duty Free Shopping

Fitness Centre and Gym

Guest Entertainers

Internet Facilities

Jogging Track

Kids Club

Live Music & Comedy

Medical Centre

Themed Party Nights

Decks

P&O - Pacific Aria - Deck Plans

Cruise reviews

"Pacific Aria"

Where to start? Cruise A550 Vanuatu Explorer on December 7th 2015 aboard the Pacific Aria was the best cruise we have been on. This was our 6th cruise and we have rated it the best yet. From the moment we booked with Cruisesalefinder to the moment we disembarked from the boat was totally awesome. The staff at Cruisesalefinder looked after us with an upgrade on the same deck (we were on deck 5 and I think we will stay on that deck from now on when we can). It was an inside cabin but it was dark, quiet and very roomy. The cabins were spotless, all the staff from the cabin stewards to the wait staff looked after all of us extremely well. There was so much choice of food everyday that it was hard to know where to go for your meals. Every bit of food we had was excellent. The price we paid was 1/3 of the price of the original cruise so it was indeed the best value for money we have every had. We have already booked our next cruise with cruisesalefinder for May 2016 and we are counting down already. We will never book directly with the cruise line again. Thank you cruisesalefinder for being there for us all the way.

"Excellent Food and Wine cruise"

Having read some mixed reviews on the Pacific Aria I wasn't sure what to expect so I kept an open mind. Thank goodness I did.
I had a balcony cabin which was clean, tidy and comfortable. The cabin stewards were very efficient and friendly. I was travelling on my own and it was lovely to be able to relax on my private balcony with a cool glass of wine. There were thunderstorms on a couple of evenings and the lightening looked amazing as there were no city lights to brighten the sky.
My bathroom had a spa bath which was quite small but fortunately I am small also so it was fun to try it out.
The Pantry concept worked very well. The food was always fresh and tasty and there was almost no waiting for your selection.
The Waterfront Restaurant was beautifully presented and the food was lovely there also. As you couldn't book a table there, sometimes you had a bit of a wait to get in. However, if you didn't want to wait you could always just go to the Pantry.
I didn't go to any of the speciality restaurants but I spoke with some who did and they all had good things to say about them.
I enjoyed the entertainment and did a couple of special activities which kept me occupied.
I guess everyone has a different experience but for me, it was a very enjoyable time and would I do it again? Definitely.

"First time on Aria"

That was the first time we have cruised on the Aria and it will not be the last. The Pantry is a great improvement on the Plantation, which we previously experienced on the Dawn - although that has changed now. There were no great delays with people picking through food as there was with the Plantation. The entertainment was the usual standard - while not being fantastic was quite ok. My only complaint is that the air conditioner control did nothing to alter the sub-zero temperature(felt like it), in the cabin. Fortunately we did not have to spend a lot of time in there except for sleeping. If that ever occurs again I'll be making plenty of noise. All of the crew I encountered were very friendly and helpful, with even those we passed in the corridor being cheerful. Overall I prefer the Aria to the Dawn - which was also good.

"Fun times on the Aria!"

We had a great time on the Pacific Aria in December 2015. It was our second cruise and it was the ships first voyage to the South Pacific under the P&O banner.
We loved the new pantry concept and the large adults only deck area! (We spent much of our time here). The renovations in all the public areas were done wonderfully. It will be fantastic if all of the cabins can be updated like all of the common areas too.
Although the ship still had some bugs to iron out it was an amazing time away from the hussle and bustle of life.
I highly recommend cruising for a holiday. We got to have plenty of time relaxing and being away from the busyness of life - phones were turned off and put away. Then at each port we were able to see and explore some of the most beautiful places you could ever encounter. Add to this all of the activities and entertainment onboard the ship, and you're in for a pretty fantastic holiday.
No matter what sort of holiday you are after (relaxing or busy as a bee) you can find it on a cruising holiday.
If you ask us, it's the way to go!!!

"Awesome short cruise with the Gals"

Had lots of drinks, music, laughed a lot and lots of fun in the sun. Comedy cruise was great. Booked already for another longer one. Wasn't my first and won't be my last.Big thanks to Staff from waiters to housekeeping..excellent service always with a smile.Food was scrumptious..I even walked the plank...not bad for an old girl...loved the excitement of it all. We girls also found that we were so busy trying to see and do a lot that was on offer, but also loved relaxing around the pool at the Oasis with a cocktail or wine in hand in between swims in the beautiful hot sun.. people were so friendly and happy.We loved the Japanese restaurant, the staff were amazing and the restaurant was beautiful, the food was awesome and will definately be going back next time without a doubt, YUMMY!! It was great to see everyone dressed up for the sailing away White night and the Gatzby costumes were amazing, a lot of the people really went way out and looked fantastic..The music was amazing and so many different kinds, sure to please everyone for sure. Had loads of fun in the casino. Our cabin was great even though we only went in there to sleep. Cheers guys 100/100 Loved it!!

Frequently asked questions

Cruising is such a great value holiday as your fare includes accommodations, all main meals onboard ship, onboard daytime activities, and night-time entertainment including live stage shows. One reason cruising is good value is because you'll know what most of your holiday will cost before you go. Generally your only extra onboard expenses could be your beverages (though these are sometimes included on luxury ships), optional shore excursions, personal services such as spa treatments, and any purchases at the gift and duty free shops.

All your main meals are included on a cruise. Typically for breakfast, lunch and dinner there is an a la carte option (order from a menu) or a buffet option. There is so much choice available, and the food is excellent. However, your cruise doesn't always just include these 3 main meals. You can in fact eat non-stop for 24 hours a day if you like.

Most cruise lines also offer specialty dining as an alternative option to the main restaurants. There is typically a small cover charge for this. However, the food is well worth it, and the specialty restaurants are normally smaller and more intimate than the main restaurants so they make for a great place to celebrate a special occasion.

The entertainment on board comes in many different styles and formats but is always included in the cruise fare. In the evening there are shows in the main show lounge (except small ship cruising). Typically there are two sessions a night so, depending on your dinner time, you can always catch the show. The style of these shows changes daily. Some nights it will include all of the ship’s entertainment crew with a Las Vegas style production. Other nights there may be a guest entertainer or comedian. There is something for everyone.

The entertainment doesn't stop with the nightly performances. Each night the ship provides a newsletter detailing all the activities that will take place the following day. These activities may include dance classes, arts and crafts, table tennis, live music, tournaments, trivia quizzes, recent release movies, and other deck games and deck parties. The great thing about a cruise is that you can do as much or as little as you like. If your idea of a holiday is sitting back with a good book, you can do that. If you like to be entertained there is no shortage of entertainment.

One of the main reasons for a cruise making such a great family holiday is the “kids club” facilities offered on board, and they are all included in your cruise fare. Typically the kids clubs are broken into 3 different age groups - 3 to 6 years, 7 to 12 years, and 13 – 17 years. In these dedicated children’s facilities they are looked after by trained staff and the facilities are open from 9am – 10pm. Parents can check their children into the “kids club” whenever it suits them. Children love these facilities as it is “their space” aboard the ship.

NB Each cruise line has limited space on board the ship for children as the kids club facilities can cater for a limited number of children, and any child booked onto a cruise has access to the kids club. If you are planning on taking a cruise during the school holidays then you need to book early as the children's space will sell out. Also, while most cruise lines have kids club facilities there are some exceptions (not common) so you should check this at time of booking.

The chances are you will not get seasick. On a cruise most people do not suffer from motion sickness. However, if you are going to get seasick then it is likely to happen in the first 24 hours. If you limit the amount of alcohol you consume and activities you do in the first 24 hours you can reduce the chance of this happening. Another thing you can do is select a midship cabin on a lower deck. A cabin in the middle of the ship (midship) will experience the least amount of movement.

There are a number of other precautions/medications you can take, and these can be purchased before you travel at a pharmacy or health shop. Otherwise you can buy them on board.

The best thing you can do if you feel seasick is visit the ship’s doctor. They can give you an injection that will give you relief from your seasickness within 30 minutes. You have planned and saved for your holiday, don't ruin it by feeling sick. Visit the doctor for the injection and get it treated straight away. If you have travel insurance then you can claim this back.

IMPORTANT: A visit to the doctor on board will cost you money so we strongly recommend you get travel insurance before you depart on your holiday.

Terms and conditions for this cruise

Frequently Asked Questions

Shore excursions are pre-organised tours & sightseeing options that you purchase on board for when your ship is in a port of call. Every ship has a “Shore Ex” desk with qualified staff who can advise you of different excursions available, what’s best to do and generally help you with information on the particular region your ship is visiting.

Shore excursions can be booked on board your ship however some cruise lines allow you to pre-book and pay for excursions online. If there is a tour you really want to do then we recommend you pre-book it as popular tours do sell out.

Shore excursions are not compulsory, you are free to go ashore and return to the ship as many times as you like.

When you go ashore it is important to note:
You must take your cruise I.D. card (ticket) as proof for re-embarking.
The city or town you are visiting may not be close to the port where the ship is docked, cruise lines normally organise shuttle buses (at a minimal charge) throughout the day to and from the city centre.
You must return to the ship at the stipulated time as the ship WILL NOT wait for late passengers.

Tour costs vary depending on the activity, itinerary and inclusions. There is always a wide variety on offer for all age groups and abilities that can start from as little as $25.

Sometimes you can book your tour, when you arrive at your port, direct from the operator at a much cheaper price. However, this comes with a buyer beware warning. The operators used by the cruise line are trusted professionals so you will not be ripped off. Also, if something goes wrong on your tour, the cruise line knows where you are and will take the necessary steps to pick you up if your vehicle has broken down. In extreme cases they will even hold the ship's departure for you if you are late returning from a tour booked through the ship. They will not wait if you go direct through the operator, as they will not know where you are.

Unlike airlines, there are no luggage restrictions on a cruise. However you need to consider that you need to store it in your cabin for your holiday. There is plenty of storage space in your cabin but if you are travelling in a quad cabin you may want to impose your own restrictions.

NB It is important to remember that airlines have different luggage restrictions, so if you are flying either pre or post cruise then you may want to keep within their allowances.

Cruise lines around the world do not all operate using the same onboard currency. The currency varies from cruise line to cruise line with the most common currency being US dollars. P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival Spirit and the Sun and Dawn Princess all use Australian dollars as their onboard currency.

Cruising is a cashless society which means when you purchase anything on board you do not pay for it in cash. When you board the ship it is like checking into a hotel, you can either give a credit card imprint or the cruise line will take a cash deposit of approximately $300. You are then given a “cruise card”. Your cruise card is your door key (on most ships), has your dinner table number on it (for traditional dining), and it is used for making any purchases aboard.

When you make a purchase with your cruise card, it is swiped and a receipt is printed that you will need to sign. The cost of the purchase is then added to your onboard account which you settle at the end of your cruise.

Many cruises on our websites come with onboard credits. This could be from a special promotion that is being run by the cruise line or because of the relationship we have with the cruise lines that allows us to select certain cruises to receive onboard credit. The amount of onboard credit does normally depend on the length of the cruise.

If your reservation receives onboard credit we will confirm this with you in writing and then your onboard account will automatically be in credit for the amount we have confirmed to you. This credit can be used towards any onboard expenditure that is charged back to your cabin. It is important to note that if you do not spend all of your onboard credit it will not be refunded to you in cash so it is best you spend it all while on board.

Tipping/gratuities are a big issue for a lot of Australasian cruise passengers as it is not our custom to reward good service in this way. What cruise passengers need to consider is that outside of Australasia, the remuneration for personnel in the service industry is quite low. Hence, to keep up a high standard, employees have the incentive of earning additional income via the tips they receive. At the end of the day, how much you tip is up to you.

The most common way cruise lines suggest tipping, is that they add a suggested amount to your daily onboard account. You can choose to keep that on your account or you can ask the purser to remove it. This suggested amount is divided out amongst your cabin steward, your dinner waiter, your assistant waiter, your wine steward, and maitre d’.

Some cruise lines ask passengers to wait until the end of the cruise and they discreetly leave an envelope in your cabin in which to place the appropriate amount. Some cruise lines state that the fare you have paid includes gratuities. Some cruise lines ask that you pre-pay the gratuities with your cruise fare prior to your holiday departure.

Again, the amount you tip is up to you (unless it is prepaid) and it isn't intended to have a negative impact on your holiday. Do what feels most comfortable to you.

The rules surrounding where you can smoke on board a cruise ship vary from cruise line to cruise line. However, none have taken steps to ban smoking completely. Most only allow smoking in designated areas on the open decks. Many have banned smoking on cabin balconies as this poses a fire risk.

Many cruise lines have rules restricting you from taking your own alcohol on board your cruise ship. If you have pre purchased duty free alcohol the ship will take it off you when you board and store it away for you. This alcohol will be delivered to your cabin the night before you disembark. The same applies if you purchase it when you are in port. Any purchases made on board will also be delivered the night before you disembark.

However, Princess Cruises will allow you to bring a bottle of wine aboard which you can drink at dinner or in your cabin.

These restrictions were put in place to create a safer environment on board your cruise ship, where people drink within a controlled drinking environment.